Sometimes what you exactly need for your nail fixing procedure may not be available, or you might require getting your nails done urgently, but the necessary product like nail glue for the process is not available. This leads you to look for an alternative product to make use of. One alternative product that comes to your mind is shoe glue in place of traditional nail glue.
Improvising is a good way of getting things done even with limited time or resources. You still want to make sure that your alternative product is safe for you, so this question pops up in your mind: “can I use shoe glue for fake nails?“.
It has a conditional answer; Yes, you can use shoe glue if that is the only available alternative. No, you should not use shoe glue if there are other available alternatives. If you’re to use shoe glue for fake nails, there are many precautions to take.
It can perfectly work in place of nail glue as it binds the fake nail to your nail bed and gets dried out in seconds. It contains the same major ingredient, Cyanoacrylate, found in nail glue. It is cheaper, and it has been proven that some stores rebrand shoe glue as nail glue which means that it can still be an option.
What Kind Of Shoe Glue Can I Use On Fake Nails?
Among all the available kinds of shoe glue in the market, the one mostly used in nail glue is Super Glue.
You can use super glue to fix fake nails because it has been proven that it has the same main ingredient as nail glue. Even then, you will have to follow the required precautions when applying it.
How To Apply Shoe Glue On Fake Nails
The particular shoe glue discussed here is super glue. Below are procedures for the application of super glue to fake nails:
1. File your natural nails properly
Filing your nails removes dirt that might be hanging on the surface of your nails.
2. Clean your nails from oil
Clean your nails from oil if it has an oily surface for the base coat to stick well to your nails.
3. Apply two coats of a clear base coat over your nails
This makes the removal process easier when due and reduces the damage that might happen to your nail. In addition, the base coat works as a buffer which gives a protective effect to your nails.
4. Gently squeeze out the super glue using a small amount at a time
Squeezing out too much of the glue will make it spread to your skin and cuticle, which will be harmful.
5. Place the fake nails on the glue and allow them to stick
It will take some seconds for the fake nail to stick to your natural nail after applying the glue.
6. Use Petroleum Jelly or Little Acetone
If the superglue comes in contact with your skin, use petroleum jelly or a very little quantity of acetone to ease it off. You will have to be patient for the glue to peel off gradually.
How To Remove Shoe Glue On Nails
When you want to change the fake nail to a new one, you will have to remove the one that has been in place.
Below are procedures to follow for the removal of shoe glue used to attach fake nails to your natural nail:
1. Apply petroleum jelly
Apply petroleum jelly on the skin around the nails that have superglue on them – this will protect your skin from acetone which is the removal product.
2. Put your fingernails in acetone
Put your fingernails into the bowl of acetone – do not put your whole fingers into the bowl. This is because absorbing acetone into your skin will cause damage to your body.
3. Remove your nails after 9-10 minutes
Remove your nails from the bowl after 9 to 10 minutes – keep a timer close to you or make use of your phone to make sure you don’t exceed the given time to avoid causing harm to your nails.
4. Press a towel over your fingertips
Gently press a towel over your fingertips but let the acetone still stay on your fingernails – Leaving the acetone on your fingernails gives the dissolving effect on the glue.
5. Use a cuticle pusher to scrape off the superglue
Use a cuticle pusher to scrape off the superglue that the acetone has dissolved. This should be done gently to avoid peeling off the top layer of your nail. Read our post on how to use cuticle pusher
6. Wash your hands
Wash your hands with soapy water to remove the petroleum jelly and the acetone from your fingernails.
7. Use a nail buffer to smooth and finish rough spots on your nails
Then, use a nail buffer to smooth and finish out any rough spots on your fingernails. A nail buffer will help lessen the glue or acetone’s harmful effect on your nails.
It is advised that you should take it cool on your nails during the process as the whole glue won’t be taken off immediately. Repeating the procedure five times can assure you of complete removal.
4 Alternatives for Nail Glue
When you’re looking for a way to keep your nails from chipping, it can be tempting to reach for nail glue. But that’s not your only option. Here are some alternatives to nail glue:
1. Nail Tabs
Nail tabs are a great alternative to nail glue if you’re looking to protect your manicure. They’re an adhesive that can be applied to the edges of your nail, with a tab on the back so you can remove them just as easily as you’d remove nail polish. They come in a variety of colors and patterns, and they’re very simple to apply and remove.
2. Acrylic mixtures
One of the most popular alternatives to nail glue is an acrylic mixture that is typically made with powder and water. The powder is mixed with water and then applied to the tip of the nail before the artificial nail is placed over top. This adhesive coats both the artificial nail and the natural nail and helps keep everything in place while it dries. While this solution isn’t as strong as glue and will only last a day or two at most, it’s great for anyone who wants to give artificial nails a go.
3. Gel Nail Polish or Polygel
Unlike regular polish, which dries quickly after application and needs to be filed away within 60 seconds, gel polish takes several minutes before it can be filed down into the desired shape. The upside to this is that you can take your time without worrying about ruining your polish job but do note that the color will continue to darken slightly once it’s dry.
The second option is poly gel, which consists of a clear plastic-like substance that hardens under UV light and doesn’t require filing or any other maintenance after application. It dries quickly and goes on just like regular polish; simply apply two coats and let sit for 30 seconds before applying the UV light for about three minutes for a full set.
4. DIY Nail Glue
Nail glue is hard to find and expensive, and it’s much better for your nails if you don’t have to use it. But if you’re in a pinch and need to get those nails looking great ASAP, there are some things that can work as a DIY nail glue. One easy and cheap way to achieve this is by mixing clear glue with clear regular nail polish (base coat). This makes the glue thicker, so it will help hold your nail together, even as your nails grow out.
4 Glue You Can Use For Your Nails
One of the questions I ask myself when it comes to nail glue is, What glue can I use for fake nails? Here are some glues you can use for fake nails, which are also safe for your natural nails.
1. Mia Secret Nail Glue
This glue dries fast and lasts longer when applied. It is used as an adhesive for fake nails. It is more moisture-resistant than any other adhesive. It is ideal for adhering to crystals design over any acrylic and gel surface.
2. Infilila Brush On Nail Glue
It is a glue known for fast drying and quick bonding. It is easy to apply, possesses a silent odor, and causes no harm to natural nails. The reviews prove that the glue is comfortable, healthy & safe.
When used, you are to hold and press the fake nail or tip for 5 seconds which creates a strong bond that will last long without falling off.
3. Nailene Ultra Quick Nail Glue
It is easy to use. It sets in seconds, possesses long-lasting ability after application, and dries quickly when applied.
4. Beetle Nail Glue And Base Gel
This nail glue is safe for your nails, possesses a low odor, and does not cause harm to your nails. Using this glue requires UV/LED. It is strong and long-lasting and provides a comfortable, pleasant nail. It can be used as a good base gel.
Is It Safe to Use Shoes Glue on Nails?
Yes, it's safe to use shoe glue on your nails. As with any product, whether it's safe to use or not depends on how you use it.
Can You Put Super Glue on Fake Nails?
Yes, absolutely, but there are some caveats. Super glue is generally not recommended for use on fake nails, this is because it can cause more harm than good on natural nails.
What Happens if You Use Super Glue for Fake Nails?
The adhesive is made to bond certain types of materials together. But, it's not meant for use on the nails of your hands, feet, or toes. It will stick your natural nail to the fake nail, which could cause damage to both. This can lead to scratching, peeling, and pain in your natural nails. It can also make it difficult for you to pull off the fake nails since they are so tightly attached.
Conclusion
If you have another alternative, do not use shoe glue for your fake nails because; it contains etching agents that roughen up the surface where the glue is used, which implies that using it on your nails will break down the top layer of your nails, making it weak and brittle. In addition, it is tough to remove, especially when used for a short-term period.
Shoe glue is so concentrated that when it accidentally goes on your skin, like your cuticle or nail bed will lead to skin irritation or dermatitis. Shoe glue wasn’t made in sterile, healthy conditions since it is not produced for the body.
Harmful substances might be mixed inside the glue during production, which can get absorbed into your body. It can be harsh to your nails, cause damage, and is not durable as traditional nail glue.
Shoe glue can be used with the many precautions listed above when there’s no other available alternative.